Not content in out-powering its petrol 120i model with the new 120d, BMW has turned to its Motorsport division to produce an even hotter 1 Series oiler.
The Motorsport 120d is alas not for road use – least not in Australia. Developed for FIA sanctioned Group N racing in Europe, the M 120d features a highly tuned version of the 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel that was released this week locally in the 120d.
The racer’s engine develops an amazing 180kW at 4200rpm with peak torque a V8-beating 450Nm at 3000rpm. This is 65kW and 120Nm more than the road version.
The race-fettled five-door hatch weighs in at 1135kg (almost 300kg lighter than the road car) and features a brake package provided by AP Racing, BBS race wheels and BMW M designed carbon-fibre aero bodywork.
The racer does not come cheap mind you. In Europe the M 120d will set you back 95,000 euros plus the 120d ‘donor’ car!
BMW says it was the first manufacturer to win an international race with a diesel powered car when in 1998 Briton Steve Soper won the Nurburgring 24 hour.